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Business & Activity Permits Downtown
Downtown Permits
Whether you're looking to host a large-scale festival or pop-up event, or if you're a musician looking to bring your talents to downtown's public realm through our busking program, we hope you'll consider Downtown Denver for your next activation or event.
Start your small business by becoming a vendor in a kiosk along 16th Street, or expand your existing business with a sidewalk café that brings energy to our pedestrian environment. Downtown Denver offers diverse opportunities for entrepreneurs and creatives of all kinds to connect with our community.
Spaces to Host an Event Downtown
16th Street
16th Street is a premier destination in Downtown Denver for visitors, employees, and residents alike. It is the commercial heart of Denver’s downtown community, which makes it a perfect place to host your special event or sampling activity. With millions of visitors each year, 16th Street is a powerful venue to promote your business, cause or activity.
Skyline Park
The Downtown Denver Partnership partners with Denver Parks and Recreation regarding Skyline Park, located along Arapahoe Street before 15th and 17th Streets. The requirements for Skyline Park differ from the other spaces. If you are interested in hosting an event at Skyline Park, please reach out to Jackie Tattersall, Senior Manager, Strategic Programs & Activations.
The Outer Space
The Outer Space at 16th and Welton is a privately managed pop-up park located in the heart of Downtown Denver, adjacent to the iconic 16th Street. The space features food vendors, a stage, tables and chairs, and is ready for activation. The Outer Space follows the same requirements and fee schedule as the 16th Street.
Busking & Photography in Downtown
Bring your talent to Downtown’s 16th Street
Bring your talents to our vibrant downtown scene and captivate audiences with your music, dance, or performance art. Join us in creating unforgettable moments and enriching our city's cultural fabric.
We welcome groups of five or less to perform for free on 16th Street. A permit is required to perform, at no cost to you. Refer to our busking code of conduct and application permit
Doing Business
Vending Program
The 16th Street vending program is designed to enhance the city’s iconic 16th Street commercial corridor and support entrepreneurs interested in locating their businesses in Downtown Denver. As we transition from a central business district to a central neighborhood district, a thriving vending community is essential to bring vibrancy and community to Downtown Denver. The 16th Street vending program provides opportunities for vendors interested in an F&B, retail, or service kiosk or cart. Quality, unique and diverse local businesses ready to take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey and contribute to the revitalization of 16th Street are encouraged to apply. Please fill out the interest form, and a member of our team will reach out with more information.
Sidewalk Cafes
As we transition from a central business district to a central neighborhood district, sidewalk activations are essential to contribute to the revitalization of the iconic 16th St. corridor. Businesses interested in installing a Sidewalk Cafe must obtain a permit through the Downtown Denver Business Improvement District (DDBID) and comply with all city and state requirements. More information on guidelines, pricing and the application process can be found below.
Sidewalk Sale
Ground floor businesses with a door facing 16th Street who are interested in a sidewalk sale can find more information and a link to apply for a permit below. All businesses must comply with sidewalk sale rules and regulations.